Cinema Al-Balad is preparing to launch its cinematic project in the Al-Baha region, thus becoming the first cinema in the area. This expansion comes at a time when the Saudi cinema sector is experiencing significant growth, as independent cinema seeks to offer a unique artistic experience away from traditional commercial halls.
Cinema Al-Balad began its project from the old alleys of Jeddah, aiming to redefine the cinematic viewing experience in Saudi Arabia. It has chosen Al-Baha as its first stop outside Jeddah, reflecting its desire to reach cities that have not yet been served by screens.
Event Details
The founder of Cinema Al-Balad, director Abdullah Saharti, confirms that the project was initiated to fill a clear gap in the local cinematic scene, where independent art cinema has been absent. The project launched its first version to lay the foundation for a cinematic experience that is lived rather than just watched.
In the second version, screenings moved to the roof of the Tarik Abdul Hakim Museum, where the experience was designed to make the viewer part of a "live cinematic frame." The Hijazi architecture blends with the open sky, creating an interactive experience for the audience.
Background & Context
This move comes at a time when the Saudi cinema sector is witnessing rapid growth, with total revenues reaching approximately 920.8 million SAR in 2025, alongside the sale of 18.8 million tickets across 603 screens in 62 cinemas distributed over 10 regions. Saudi films have also recorded a growing presence with revenues of 122.6 million SAR.
Data shows that commercial films, particularly action and comedy genres, dominate the market, reflecting the general audience's preferences. In this context, Cinema Al-Balad appears as a complementary option rather than a competitor to commercial markets.
Impact & Consequences
Cinema Al-Balad aims to provide a space for independent films that may not find their way to large box office numbers. The cinema maintains its unique model through a small hall with no more than 35 seats, allowing for a personal experience and enhancing the idea of a "cinematic community" rather than a transient audience.
With the project moving to Al-Baha, the number of daily screenings will rise to 6 shows, compared to just two in Jeddah, reflecting the anticipated demand for this new cinematic experience.
Regional Significance
Cinema Al-Balad contributes to enhancing cinematic culture in Saudi Arabia, reflecting a shift in the cinematic landscape of the region. It also opens avenues for Saudi filmmakers through workshops and specialized nights aimed at enhancing artistic skills.
Saharti describes this impact as "offering hope and opportunity," as local filmmakers now have a platform to showcase their work away from commercial market constraints. From Al-Balad to Al-Baha, the outlines of a project are forming that seeks to traverse the cities of the Kingdom, carrying with it a different cinematic model.